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Embracing Community: A Journey of Discipleship

4/1/2025

Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

In today's world, where individualism often takes center stage, the notion of community might seem outdated or even unnecessary. Yet, as followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to embrace community as an essential aspect of our spiritual journey. The gospel emphasizes that our spiritual development is deeply intertwined with the communities we create and nurture.

From the very beginning of his ministry, Jesus emphasized the importance of community and fellowship as foundational elements of his teachings. His approach was not focused on creating isolated followers but rather on building a cohesive group that would embody and spread God’s renewing grace throughout the world. This vision of community lies at the heart of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

“You hold precious lives in your hands. Be gentle and gracious with one another. A community is no stronger than the weakest within it. Even as the One you follow reached out to those who were rejected and marginalized, so must the community that bears his name.”
D&C 162:6c

The Call to Community
As Christians, we are called to live in community—not only with Jesus Christ but with each other. This involves more than just attending church services and events; it requires active engagement with the world around us. By forming communities, we support and encourage one another on our faith journeys, working together to make a positive impact.

Fellowship was more than just a social gathering for Jesus and his disciples; it was an essential part of their spiritual journey. Through shared experiences, meals, and teachings, the disciples learned to support and uplift one another, embodying the very essence of what it means to live in a community. This fellowship was crucial for their growth as disciples, as it provided a foundation of love, support, and accountability that allowed each member to thrive both spiritually and personally.

A Christ-centered community will exhibit qualities that demonstrate what it means to be ruled by God’s love rather than the values of the world.

Creating Welcoming Communities
A key mission for Christians is to create communities where all individuals feel accepted and valued, irrespective of their backgrounds or beliefs. This mission involves reaching out to those who may feel marginalized or excluded and building bridges of understanding and compassion. In doing so, we align with the teachings of Christ, who welcomed all with open arms.

"Let the educational and community development endeavors of the church equip people of all ages to carry the ethics of Christ’s peace into all arenas of life. Prepare new generations of disciples to bring fresh vision to bear on the perplexing problems of poverty, disease, war, and environmental deterioration. Their contributions will be multiplied if their hearts are focused on God’s will for creation."
D&C 163:4c

Serving with Love and Compassion
Service is a powerful expression of the love and compassion of Christ. It manifests in various forms, such as volunteering at local food banks or shelters, advocating for justice and equality, and working towards a more equitable society. Through service, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those around us.

Living the Christian faith in community means engaging deeply with both Jesus Christ and our fellow believers. By creating welcoming and inclusive spaces, we can renew our relationships with God and each other. Through service, we act as vessels of Christ's love, working to build a more just and compassionate world. Let us join hands and hearts to make this vision a reality, transforming our communities and the world for the better.

“Then, as you go forth to witness of my love and my concern for all persons, you will know the joy which comes from devoting yourselves completely to the work of the kingdom. To this end will my Spirit be with you.”
D&C 156:11b

We value our connections and share a strong sense of trust in and belonging with one another; even if we never have met. There are so many ways to connect with our community. We not only come together for worship, but we look for ways to build relationships along our discipleship journey. We invite you to share with the Topeka Community of Christ congregation in these (FREE) community building activities:

Community Activities

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Time to get off the bench and into the game

3/2/2025

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Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

It’s Time to Get Off the Bench
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to find yourself sitting on the sidelines, watching the world go by. But now is the time to get off the bench and into the game! It's time to change your life, your community, and the world.

Through discovering your purpose and pursuing Christ’s mission of compassion, justice, and peace, you can make a meaningful impact for positive change.

Discover Your Purpose
Finding your purpose can indeed be a daunting task. Many of us wrestle with questions like, "Why am I here?" or "What am I meant to do with my life?" While these questions can seem overwhelming, they are crucial for living a fulfilling life. Understanding your purpose gives you direction and motivation, helping you to wake up each day with a sense of meaning.

The journey to discovering your purpose becomes less intimidating when you're part of a faith community actively engaged in Christ’s Mission. By engaging with others who share a common goal, you are more likely to uncover your individual calling and the unique role you are meant to play in the world.

Become Part of Something Bigger
God intends Christian faith to be lived in companionship with Jesus Christ and with other disciples in service to the world. A church is not a building, projects or programs. It’s people!

When you join a faith community dedicated to serving Christ’s Mission, you become part of something much bigger than yourself.

This sense of belonging can transform your life, providing you with a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. As you collaborate with others in pursuit of shared goals, you’ll find that your own capabilities and passions are amplified, allowing you to make a more significant impact.

Christ’s Mission: Compassion, Justice, and Peace
Pursuing Christ's mission is at the heart of what it means to be a member of our faith community. By focusing on compassion, justice, and peace, our ministries strive to address the pressing issues that our community and world face today.

Christ's call to put our lives into divine mission is a powerful reminder of our purpose as believers. Responding to this call requires a deep commitment to living a life that is centered on compassion, justice, and peacemaking. These are not mere buzzwords; they are the cornerstones of a life dedicated to service and transformation.

We can invite others to join us in our journey of faith and share the good news of Christ's love with those around us. This can be done through simple acts of kindness, such as offering a listening ear or a helping hand to those in need.

Compassion
Compassion is about reaching out to those in need, offering love and support, and making a tangible difference in their lives. By engaging in compassionate acts, you not only help others, but you also grow in empathy and understanding.

Justice
Justice involves advocating for fairness and equality. It means taking a stand against systems of oppression and working toward a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Through justice-focused ministries, you can contribute to creating a more equitable society.

Peace
Peace is about cultivating harmony and resolving conflicts, not only in our personal lives but also in the wider world. By promoting peace, you help to build bridges between diverse communities and foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.

Making Christ's Mission Our Mission
The Topeka CofChrist congregation is a faith community actively engaged in living out Christ's mission.

Mission Activities

Our ministries are dedicated to transforming lives, communities, and the world. Whether through outreach programs, social justice initiatives, or community-building efforts, Topeka CofChrist is committed to making a positive impact.

“You who are my disciples must be found continuing in the forefront of those organizations and movements which are recognizing the worth of persons and are committed to bringing the ministry of my Son to bear on their lives.”
D&C 151:9

By joining our efforts, you too can become a force for good in the world. Embrace the challenge, and take that first step off the bench. Together, we can change lives, communities, and the world. This is Christ’s Mission, and it can be our mission too.

Let's make it happen!

And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.
Matthew 28:18-20 NRSV

Sometimes we miss opportunities to serve because we are searching for the "Big Deal” and overlook the value of small acts of kindness. The Great Commission seems too intimidating to us with quotes of the commission often ending with the scripture as listed above, but we forget the last part, and most important part of the commission.

And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Matthew 28:18-20 NRSV

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Paying it forward though Scouting

2/1/2025

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Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

The Scouting Way
The Scouting program’s emphasis on character building, community service, and leadership skills is unparalleled, and for many, it becomes a transformative experience that shapes their entire lives. As someone who has reaped the benefits of this incredible program, it’s important to pause and reflect on the countless individuals who have made it possible. In doing so, we can also explore how we can pay it forward to ensure future generations enjoy the same opportunities.

Troop 134 Topeka, Kansas

The Impact of Scouting
From learning essential life skills to understanding the value of teamwork, Scouting offers a diverse range of experiences that contribute to personal growth. As a youth, participating in Scouting was not just about earning badges or going on camping trips; it was about building a foundation for a successful and meaningful life. I can attribute success in my professional growth and development in public administration, in part to the leadership skills learned through scouting.

What often goes unnoticed, however, is the army of volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes. These dedicated individuals give their time to ensure that every Scout can learn and grow in a supportive environment. They are the unsung heroes who make Scouting happen, and they deserve our gratitude.

Gratitude to Those Who Served
Scout Sunday is February 2nd. Reflecting on my Scouting journey, I am filled with appreciation for parents (both of my parents served as volunteer scout leaders), and community members who volunteered their time, talents, testimony and treasure in support of Scouting. To those who served the Scouting program, thank you. Your dedication has not gone unnoticed, and your efforts have created a ripple effect that extends far beyond the Scouts you directly influenced. You have instilled values and skills that will benefit society for generations to come.

National Jamboree & Jayhawk Area Council

Pack 160 Sedalia, Missouri

Paying It Forward
Now, it’s our turn to give back. We can raise awareness about the benefits of Scouting in our community. Encourage others to get involved, whether as participants or supporters. Inspire others by sharing our positive experiences with Scouting. Whether through social media, speaking engagements, or casual conversations, your story can motivate others to join or support the program.

By paying it forward, we honor those who have paved the way for us in the Scouting program. We ensure that the values and skills we learned are passed on to future generations, fostering a world of responsible, capable, and compassionate citizens. Some of my paying it forward to scouting as a volunteer leader is reflected in the photos on this blog post.

Our Topeka Community of Christ congregation has been very supportive of the scouting program in our community, providing space in our building for their activities, and financial support to these local units through our operating budget. At one time we had a Girl Scout troop, a Cub Scout pack and a Boy Scout troop, meeting at our church. Sadly, they are all gone! (Hey local scout organizations, we’re here!) There are several youth in our congregation who are active in scouting units near their home. Yes, just ordered some Girl Scout Cookies from a young lady who attends our congregation!

Let's celebrate the legacy of Scouting and the dedicated individuals who made it all possible. As we express our gratitude, let us also commit to nurturing the next generation of Scouts, ensuring that they too can embark on life’s journey with confidence and purpose.

Please share you Scouting experiences in the comments below.

Osage Trails District, Sedalia, Missouri

BSA Jayhawk Area Council

Girl Scouts of NE KS & NW MO

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No God No Peace, Know God Know Peace

1/8/2025

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Author
Elder Jim Fairchild

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the phrase "No God No Peace, Know God Know Peace" serves as a profound reminder of what our faith journey can bring to our lives. This statement encapsulates a truth that resonates deeply within the journey of discipleship, guiding us toward a more fulfilling and peaceful existence.

“Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Matthew 6:10 NRSV

First believers continued Christ’s mission by proclaiming the Living Christ, inviting all people into community, valuing the worth of each person, generously and compassionately meeting their needs, and pursuing justice and peace for everyone.

Seeking God’s will on earth as it is in heaven is to try to make God’s kingdom tangible among us, in this life. Zion is a world safe for the endangered and vulnerable, a place where the lamb and the lion shall lie down together without any anger. This is what we mean in our mission statement about promoting communities of joy, hope, love, and peace.

Understanding the Blog Statement

At first glance, the phrase might seem simplistic, yet it carries a powerful message. The first part, "No God No Peace," suggests that without a relationship with God, true peace is elusive. The absence of spiritual connection often leaves individuals feeling restless and searching for meaning in temporary or superficial pursuits. This lack of peace can manifest in various forms, such as anxiety, discontent, or a sense of emptiness.

The second part, "Know God Know Peace," speaks to the profound serenity that comes from knowing and experiencing God's presence in our lives. God yearns to establish a lasting covenant of peace with humankind and with all of creation. It emphasizes that engaging in a relationship with God allows one to find inner peace, regardless of external circumstances. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a deep-seated sense of assurance and calm that anchors us amidst life's challenges.

“Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s shalom, invites all people to come and receive divine peace in the midst of the difficult questions and struggles of life. Follow Christ in the way that leads to God’s peace and discover the blessings of all of the dimensions of salvation.”
D&C 163:2a

Applying the Statement to Our Discipleship Journey

Discipleship is a journey of learning, growth, and transformation. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in a way that reflects His teachings and love. The statement "Know God Know Peace" is particularly relevant to this journey, as it underscores the importance of maintaining a close relationship with God to stay focused on the mission.

Living the peace of Jesus Christ involves generously and compassionately offering witness, ministry, sacraments, and community life that reconciles and restores people to right or righteous relationships with God, themselves, others, and creation. This holistic approach to proclaiming and demonstrating the gospel is faithful to our best understanding of God’s will. This approach is the fullest meaning of restoration.

Embracing Community
Discipleship also involves engaging with a community of believers. The gospel of Jesus Christ emphasizes the importance of community and its role in the spiritual development of individuals. We are called to create communities of Christ’s peace in our families and congregations and across villages, tribes, nations, and throughout creation. In community we experience God's presence through the love and kindness of sharing with others, reinforcing the peace that comes from knowing Him.

“Heed the urgent call to become a global family united in the name of the Christ, committed in love to one another, seeking the kingdom for which you yearn and to which you have always been summoned. That kingdom shall be a peaceable one and it shall be known as Zion.”
D&C 161:6b

A disciple pondering all of the world’s problems knelt before God in fervent prayer, his heart breaking from all of the pain, suffering and injustice he has witnessed in the world.

"Dear God," he prayed, "look at all the injustice, poverty, pain and suffering in Your world! Why don't You send help?"

God responded, "I did send help. I sent you."

The peace of Jesus Christ encompasses all the promises, hopes, and blessings of the gospel as revealed by God through Christ, and affirmed by the Holy Spirit, God’s promised presence within our midst.

The statement "No God No Peace, Know God Know Peace" beautifully encapsulates the essence of our discipleship journey. We share the peace of Jesus Christ by caring for one another, for all people, and for the earth itself, and invite others to come, be transformed, and then go forth to serve others.

So where do we begin? I believe the following scripture is a good place to start.

“Above all else, strive to be faithful to Christ’s vision of the peaceable Kingdom of God on earth. Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue peace.”
D&C 163:3b

Visit the Pursue Peace page on this website to learn more. We invite you to join us!

Pursue Peace

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Celebrating the Epiphany: Revelations and Our Discipleship Journey

12/12/2024

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Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

The Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, is a significant event in the Christian calendar that marks the revelation of God the Son as a human being in Jesus Christ. This celebration highlights the journey of the Three Kings, also known as the Wise Men or Magi, who followed a star to honor the newborn king with their treasures. This profound story not only commemorates a pivotal moment in Christian theology but also serves as an inspiring metaphor for our own personal journey of discipleship.

The Journey of the Magi

The journey of the Magi is a story rich with symbolism and meaning. These wise men, often thought to be astrologers or scholars from the East, embarked on a long and arduous journey, guided by a mysterious star, to find and honor the newborn king. Upon their arrival, they presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, each carrying its own symbolic weight—gold for kingship, frankincense for divinity, and myrrh for suffering and death.

The Magi's journey is a testament to the pursuit of truth and wisdom. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, they faced, their determination to follow the star and find Jesus reflects a deep commitment to discovering and acknowledging the divine.

Scripture Reference Matthew 2:1-12 NRSV

Relating the Epiphany to
Our Personal Discipleship Journey

The narrative of the Epiphany and the journey of the Magi offers profound insights into our own discipleship journey. Just as the Magi were guided by a star, we too are called to seek and follow the light of Christ in our lives. This journey often requires us to step out in faith, embracing the unknown and overcoming obstacles along the way.

"You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:14-16 NSRV

Seeking Truth and Wisdom

Like the Magi, our discipleship journey involves a continuous quest for truth and wisdom. This means being open to learning, exploring our faith deeply, and allowing ourselves to be transformed by the teachings and example of Jesus.

Disciples are called to grow in their knowledge and understanding of the scriptures so that they may ever increase in love for God, neighbor, and self; uphold the dignity and worth of all persons, and faithfully follow the way of Jesus Christ.

Offering Our Gifts

The gifts of the Magi remind us to offer our own gifts of our talents, treasure, time, and testimony. In our journey of discipleship, we are called to use these gifts to serve others and to contribute to the building of Christ’s Peaceable Kingdom.

“God calls whomever God calls from among committed disciples, according to their gifts, to serve and reach all humankind.”
D&C 165:4a

Embracing the Journey

The path of discipleship is not always straightforward. It requires resilience, patience, and trust in God's guidance. Embracing this journey means being willing to adapt, grow, and persevere, even when the road is challenging.

When your call to follow Christ in Mission comes; understand that He has a plan for your gifts and talents. If you place your trust in Him and listen carefully to his call, He will use your gifts in a manner which best suits his Mission, and not necessarily what you might expect.

“The mission of Jesus Christ is what matters most for the journey ahead.”
D&C 164:9f

The celebration of the Epiphany and the story of the Magi provide a rich tapestry of symbolism and inspiration for our personal discipleship journey. As we reflect on this event, let us be reminded of the divine revelation in Christ’s call to put our lives into mission is a powerful reminder of our purpose as believers. Responding to this call requires a deep commitment to living a life that is centered on compassion, justice, and peacemaking.

Ministry is humble service offered by disciples who follow Jesus. It is creating relationships that inclusively share Christ’s peace and boundless love. Disciples choose to accept God’s grace, ground themselves in God’s love for them and all people, and generously share Christ’s peace with everyone they meet.

“My Spirit is reaching out to numerous souls even now and there are many who will respond if you, my people, will bear affirmative testimony of my love and my desires for all to come unto me.”
D&C 153:9b

May our Discipleship Journey, like that of the Magi, lead us to a deeper understanding and experience of God's love and presence in our lives, and the lives of those we meet on our journey.

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Embracing Community: A Journey of Discipleship

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Time to get off the bench and into the game

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Paying it forward though Scouting

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No God No Peace, Know God Know Peace

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